Northern Lights & Hidden Gems
WINTER TOUR: Join us on an unforgettable Northern Lights adventure, beginning with a Northern Lights Cruise in Reykjavik. Experience the wonders of the Golden Circle, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, and the Geysir Geothermal Area. Discover Lake Myvatn and relax in the Myvatn Nature Baths. Explore Akureyri, Iceland's northern gem, set sail from Dalvik on a thrilling whale-watching cruise, and witness the colossal icebergs at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Discover the mythical world of Dimmuborgir's black lava formations and legends of dangerous trolls.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Iceland!
Day 1 Welcome to Iceland!
Welcome to the lively capital of Iceland, Reykjavik! Get ready for an exciting adventure full of cultural wonders, picturesque views - and best of all, an opportunity to chase the famous Northern Lights.
If you arrive early, today is a free day to explore the city at leisure. Why not check out some of the museums, galleries, restaurants and historic landmarks that line the streets?
Take a walk along Reykjavik's oldest shopping street, Laugavegur or get a bird's eye view of the city from the iconic Hallgrimkirkja Church, which was inspired by the Svartivoss Waterfall. Visit one of the city's exciting museums - the National Museum, the Reykjavik Museum of Photography, Culture House, or even the Phallological Museum (the only one in the world) all come to mind!
In the evening, you will get the chance to join a Northern Lights boat tour, accompanied by an expert aurora guide. Setting course under pitch-black skies, we will search above for the wonderous emerald light show.
Day 2 The Golden Circle
Day 2 The Golden Circle
Reykjavik - Kirkjubajarklaustur. Today we visit exciting sites along Iceland's Golden Circle route. Our first stop is Thingvellir National Park, where you'll be amazed by the geological marvels shaped by the shifting tectonic plates. Stand on the historic grounds of the world's oldest parliament and feel the deep connection to Iceland's past. Afterwards, prepare to be mesmerized by the mighty Strokkur geyser erupting at the Geysir Geothermal Area, a thrilling display of nature's power.
Next, we'll witness the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, known as the 'Golden Waterfall' for its majestic beauty. Our adventure continues as we explore the enchanting Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, offering unique experiences to walk behind the cascading water and witness captivating rainbows.
As the day comes to a close, we'll settle into the peaceful village of Kirkjubajarklaustur. During winter, our rural hotel becomes an ideal base for spotting the magical Northern Lights.
Day 3 Skaftafell & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Day 3 Skaftafell & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Kirkjubajarklaustur - Hofn. We continue along the South Coast route today. Our first stop is Reynisfjara black sand beach, known for its remarkable waves, stunning basalt columns and pitch-black volcanic sand.
After the beach, there will be a change of scenery as we head towards icy glaciers. If visiting between October and April, we will enjoy a guided tour through the Crystal Ice Cave. Otherwise, we will embark on a 3-hour hike through Skaftafell in Vatnajokull National Park. This will give us the opportunity to get up close and personal with Europe's biggest glacier, Vatnajokull.
Next stop will be the jaw-dropping Myradalsjokull Glacier, home to the Katia Volcano, and her neighbour, the notorious Eyjafjalljökull. Afterwards, we visit the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the most famous ice lagoon in the world. Witness the crystalline icefloes before walking towards Diamond Beach, another stunning coastline beach decorated with icebergs and coal-black sand.
Tonight, we will arrive in Hofn - the lobster capital of Iceland. The dark nights in the area are, once again, perfect for spotting the elusive Northern Lights!
Day 4 The Eastern Fjords
Day 4 The Eastern Fjords
Hofn - Egilsstadir. Heading away from Iceland's traditional tourist path, we journey along the coastline of the Eastern Fjords to the charming fishing village of Djúpivogur in the unspoiled East Fjords. View the renowned sculpture work, Eggin of Gleðivík, representing the eggs of 34 bird species nesting in the area.
Next, embark on a fabulous scenic hike to Iceland's second-highest waterfall, Hengifoss, and witness the enchanting Litlanesfoss waterfall. Keep an eye out for Iceland's iconic reindeer as we drive along and enjoy some reindeer gazing and photography if we spot them.
Tonight, we rest in the riverside town of Egilstaðir, ready for more exciting adventures tomorrow.
Day 5 Lake Myvatn, Godafoss & Akureyri
Day 5 Lake Myvatn, Godafoss & Akureyri
Egilsstadir - Akureyri. Leaving Egilsstaðir, we head to Möðrudalur, the highest inhabited farm in Iceland, with a delightful surprise - the country's highest coffee house.
Weather permitting, our first stop will be a visit to the awe-inspiring Dettifoss Waterfall. Prepare to be mesmerized by the thunderous cascades and intense roaring waters.
At mystical Lake Mývatn, we explore Námaskarð's geothermal wonderland and visit Hverfjall Crater and Dimmuborgir lava formations for more breathtaking views.
Relax at the Mývatn Nature Baths, where you can opt to bathe in soothing mineral-rich blue waters (pay locally), and then visit the historic Goðafoss waterfall, rich in Icelandic history, and the site where Icelanders first embraced Christianity in the year 1000 AD.
We spend the night in Akureyri, known for its stunning fjords, charming downtown, and excellent restaurants.
Day 6 Whale Watching
Day 6 Whale Watching
Akureyri - Laugarbakki. Today we hope to get up close to some of the giants of the natural world. Iceland is well known for the diversity of whales and dolphins that inhabit its waters. Our three-hour whale-watching cruise departs from the fishing town of Dalvik, and we hope to see humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and perhaps even a blue whale - though the species to spot will depend on the time of year you travel. You can also try some fishing if you fancy, with a chance to taste what you catch!
After whale-watching, we explore Dalvík its with stunning views and a reputation for skiing. Continuing to Sigluförður, admire colorful houses reflecting the town's herring-based past.
Afterwards, we drive along the Trollaskagi Peninsula, taking in quaint fishing hamlets and agricultural areas. On the way to our accommodation, we'll pass through Skagaförður, a beautiful fjord featuring islands like Drangey. This island, with steep sea cliffs from a 700,000-year-old volcano, is the setting of Grettis Saga, where the outlaw Grettir found refuge with his brother Illugi and slave Glaumur.
Arriving in Laugarbakki, we will have another chance to look for the Northern Lights in the evening.
Day 7 West Iceland
Day 7 West Iceland
Laugarbakki - Reykjavik. We make our return journey to Reykjavik today. There are numerous stops along our route through Borgarfjordur, Iceland's western region. These include the Deildartunguhver Hot Spring and the legendary Barnafoss waterfall. We also see the Hraunfossar cascade, the low and wide falls where the water emerges straight from the lava field. There's also a stop in picturesque Reykholt before we arrive back in the capital.
We'll pass through the scenic Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord), before arriving in Reykjavik between 17:00 - 18:00.
In the evening, join our Northern Lights minibus tour. Our expert guides monitor the aurora forecast to ensure the perfect spot to witness the magical Northern Lights. Get ready for an enchanting experience, and perhaps your last chance to witness the stunning emerald aurora!
Day 8 Goodbye Iceland!
Day 8 Goodbye Iceland!
A leisurely day for you to further see the sights of this beautiful city, as the tour comes to an end after breakfast.
Take this chance to wander down new paths, go for a scenic bike ride, or enjoy nature. Seltjarnarnes and Mosfellsbær are both mountain-view peninsulas easily reached by bus from Reykjavik. A visit to Reykjavik Botanical Gardens is also a great option - visit the hot spring pools where women used to do their laundry or take a dip in Laugardalslaug, Iceland’s largest swimming pool.
With endless options, from nature, to shopping, to restaurants and museums, be sure to make the most of your final day in the vibrant Reykjavik!
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Adventure Hotel Geirland is set just outside the quiet village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. All rooms offer tea/coffee facilities and views of the surrounding mountain ridge. Some of Geirland’s cosy rooms are set in individual cottages in the garden. Free Wi-Fi and a TV are available in the main building. Guests can enjoy an onsite restaurant and bar. Lunch packs can be made on request. Skaftafell National Park is 60 minutes’ drive from Adventure Hotel Geirland.
Located in Hofn on the south eastern coast of Iceland, this charming hotel boasts beautiful views of the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. Its modern, ensuite guestrooms benefit from free WiFi and luxury organic toiletries made in Iceland. The a la carte restaurant serves local specialties such as langoustine, which the fishing village of Hofn is famous for, as well as plenty of vegetarian dishes. During the summer, guests can dine out on the terrace and enjoy a drink or two during happy hour.
Hotel Valaskjalf is located in the town of Egilsstadir in East Iceland, on the banks of the River Lagarfljot and close to the Hallormsstadur forest. Guest rooms are comfortable with en-suite bathrooms and free wi-fi access. The on site restaurant has strong influences from Mediterranean countries, offering authentic Italian pizzas and the bar has happy hour every day from 4-6pm.
Opened in 2011, Icelandair Hotel Akureyri is a tastefully decorated hotel with magnificent views of the city. Guest rooms are tastefully decorated with bright and airy rooms and excellent facilities. A delicious array of meals are served at the onsite restaurant - choose form local and international cuisine including Artic Char, Lamb Shank or Wild Goose from Eyjafjordur! The hotel is located just a short drive from the Hlidarfjall ski resort.
In Midfjordur, midway between Reykjavik and Akureyri, is Hótel Laugarbakki. Stay close to one of Iceland’s best salmon rivers and the natural hot springs, which heat up the entire community. All guest rooms have private bathrooms, a flat-screen TV and a desk. Free WiFi is available in all rooms. Hótel Laugarbakki also features a restaurant, gym and hot tubs making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring the countryside.
Set in the capital, this design hotel is located just 2km from central Reykjavik. With a modern Nordic elegance, the Reykjavik Lights Hotel offers comfortable and stylish guest rooms, individually decorated with artworks and inspiration from the ancient Icelandic calendar. Guests rooms are complete with a private bathroom, flat screen TV and free WiFi access. Buffet breakfast is served each morning in the dining room. Drinks can be enjoyed in the lounge bar, featuring decór inspired by the changing lights of Iceland.
Tour Reviews
some of the accomodations were not good. cold rooms lukewarm showers, food poor quality, overall I would not recommend this tour group. communication was poor with tour group. We were almost stranded waiting to be picked up. One boat ride tour never picked us up, no call no communication.
Overall the tour and the guide were excellent. There are a couple of things which can be improved. The boat trip to see the Northern Lights at the first night had been cancelled due to weather conditions. However, instead of being able to contact me directly, the boat trip operator could only contact On The Go. The cancellation information had not been passed to me. It was left to myself to find out why the trip had been cancelled and how to get a refund. On the last day, the itinerary details weren not clear which hotel I should stay.
Extras and add-ons
Entrance to Myvatn Baths
Enjoy a relaxing dip in the Myvatn Nature Baths with this optional extra available on many of our Iceland tours!. Known as the "Blue Lagoon of the North", this is a great add-on for those looking to experience one of the country's popular hot springs.
Waterprooof Pants / Trousers Rental
Hiking Boots Rental
Waterproof Pants / Trousers Rental
Waterproof Jacket Rental
Luggage Storage
On this tour you are allowed to bring a small backpack and 1 piece of luggage weighing a maximum of 20 kg (44 lbs). The combined dimensions of each bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 in).
Waterproof Pants / Trousers Rental
Waterproof Jacket Rental
Tour Upgrades
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